The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

PRETZEL SUNDAY

A FOLK CUSTOM IS STILL WIDELY OBSERVED ON THE FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT
IN LUXEMBOURG. YOUNG MEN PRESENT CAKES, BRIGHTLY DECORATED AND BAKED
IN THE FORM OF PRETZELS TO THE YPUNG WOMEN. IF THE GIRL WISHES
TO ENCOURAGE THE YOUNG MAN, SHE GIVES HIM A DECORATED EGG ON EASTER
SUNDAY. IN LEAP YEAR, THE PLAN IS REVERSED: THE GIRL PRESENTS THE
CAKE AND THE BOY RECIPROCATES WITH AN EGG.

Data entry tech comment: PRETZELS HAVE BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH LENT SINCE THE BEGINNINGS OF
CHRISTIANITY. THE SHAPE IS SUPPOSED TO SUGGEST TWO
ARMS IN PRAYER.

Keyword(s): FOOD CUSTOM

Date learned: 03-18-1968